test the waters
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Several cryptocurrency-related companies went public in 2025, and Kraken is another that could test the waters in the new year.
From MarketWatch • Dec. 31, 2025
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered that monk parakeets meeting unfamiliar birds tend to "test the waters" before deciding whether a potential partner is safe to approach.
From Science Daily • Nov. 23, 2025
Oganesyan knew Kopushyan, a former Bouchon line cook, had the culinary skills to test the waters, but it took a little convincing to get him on board.
From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 15, 2025
Ross agreed, saying it is a "good way to test the waters".
From BBC • Dec. 14, 2024
“Relying on a friend to test the waters when you’re looking for a date? Amateurs.”
From "Clean Getaway" by Nic Stone
![]()